Peer Review Policy

Horizon Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal implements a rigorous and transparent peer review policy to ensure the quality, reliability, and academic integrity of the published scholarly content. In line with international publishing ethics, all submitted manuscripts undergo an objective, independent, and professional expert evaluation process.

The journal adopts a double-blind peer review system, in which the identities of both authors and reviewers are concealed from each other.

Stages of the Peer Review Process

  • Initial Editorial Screening: Submitted manuscripts are first evaluated by the editorial team for their relevance to the journal’s aims and scope, structural quality, academic merit, and compliance with ethical standards.
  • Plagiarism Check: All manuscripts are screened using plagiarism detection tools in accordance with international standards.
  • Reviewer Assignment: Manuscripts deemed suitable are sent to at least two independent and experienced reviewers with expertise in the relevant field.
  • Expert Evaluation: Reviewers assess manuscripts based on scientific originality, methodological rigor, validity of results, relevance of the topic, and overall presentation quality.
  • Decision Making: The editorial board makes one of the following decisions:
    • Accept
    • Accept with minor revisions
    • Major revision required
    • Reject
  • Revision and Final Decision: After authors address the required revisions, the manuscript may be re-evaluated before a final decision is made.

Core Principles of the Peer Review Policy

  • Impartiality and Objectivity: Reviews are conducted solely on the basis of academic merit.
  • Confidentiality: The peer review process is strictly confidential, and submitted materials are not shared with third parties.
  • Compliance with Ethical Standards: The journal adheres to international publication ethics guidelines (COPE).
  • Conflict of Interest: Reviewers must decline to review manuscripts in cases of potential conflicts of interest.
  • Professionalism and Responsibility: Reviewers are expected to provide constructive, well-justified, and development-oriented feedback.